Women take the top two roles in Bandon Kinsale Municipal District

BY KIERAN O'MAHONY 

THE new chairperson of Bandon Kinsale Municipal District, Cllr Rachel McCarthy (SF), said she is relishing the opportunity to lead the Municipal District over the next year, as she becomes the first female representative to hold the position.

Cllr McCarthy nominated herself for the position, which was seconded by Cllr Aidan Lombard (FG). Cllr Gillian Coughlan (FF) also contested the race and nominated herself, seconded by Cllr Alan Coleman (Ind). 

When it came to a vote, Cllr Coleman abstained and Cllr McCarthy was elected following votes from Cllr James O'Donovan (FG), Cllr Aidan Lombard and herself. Cllr Coughlan was elected vice-chairperson of the district.

Cllr McCarthy said: ‘I am delighted to be elected to the position and I appreciate the support from my fellow councillors. I relish the opportunity to lead the district and I am the first female chairperson to do so.

‘I would like to thank Gillian, too, and also acknowledge the hard work of the outgoing chairperson Cllr Kevin Murphy. It was the best of times and the worst of times, but he has given us guidance over the past 12 months and has pushed issues like the lack of a SouthDoc in Kinsale and the need for a Youth Café in the town.'

Cllr McCarthy said she would endeavour to continue his dedication.

‘It's been a big year in this Municipal District, what with works on the Bandon Flood Relief Scheme finally being undertaken. I would ask the people of Bandon to bear with us as results will happen soon,' added Cllr McCarthy.

Outgoing chairperson Cllr Murphy (FG) said it was a great honour and commitment to represent the area over the past 12 months and he thanked all the staff that had worked closely with him.

Incoming vice-chairperson Cllr Gillian Coughlan (FF) congratulated Cllr McCarthy and said she would be an excellent public representative for Bandon Kinsale Municipal District.